Cilian: Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Pronunciation: KIL-ee-an
Origin: Ireland
gender-male

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Emmy Samtani

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Updated on Jul 01, 2025 · 1 min read
Region Origin: Irish
Meaning: Cilian is of Irish origin and means "war strife" or "bright-headed."

Cilian is a masculine name with roots in Irish and Gaelic origin. It is derived from the name "Cillian," which means "little warrior" or "bright-headed." This name carries a sense of strength and leadership, often associated with individuals who exhibit a dynamic and charismatic personality. In recent decades, the name Cilian has gained recognition in various cultural contexts. Notably, Cillian Murphy, an acclaimed Irish actor known for his roles in films such as "Inception" and the television series "Peaky Blinders," has brought considerable attention to this name. His success and influence have contributed to the name's contemporary appeal, associating it with creativity and talent. Cilian, with its melodic sound and rich heritage, remains a distinctive choice for those seeking a name that embodies both tradition and modern appeal.

Cilian Name Popularity Data

chat-overall Cilian is currently #46114 in the popularity of the name rankings.
gender-female Boy: Cilian is currently #19559 on Kiindred Boy Names
gender-male Overall Unique: Cilian is currently #23058 on Kiindred Unique Names
gender-male Boy Unique: Cilian is currently #9662 on Kiindred Boy Unique Names

Popularity Trend Chart

Source: Social Security Administration

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